ShaderGlass

About

ShaderGlass is a single player action game. It was developed by mausimus and was released on April 29, 2025. It received overwhelmingly positive reviews from players.

ShaderGlass is an overlay that applies retro shader effects on the Windows desktop in real-time. It includes over 300 shaders from the RetroArch library, simulating CRT monitors, upscaling, TV/VHS effects, and various image processing techniques. The overlay works with most emulators and retro platforms, as well as applications like YouTube and Twitch, and features new options for image input, capture area locking, and free resizing.

Genres & Tags

Free to Play

Play Modes

Single-Player

Skip User Reviews

96%

Audience ScoreBased on 201 reviews

monetization1 negative mentions

ShaderGlass enhances the visual experience of retro games and old media, making them look authentic and nostalgic.
The software is user-friendly, highly customizable, and free, making it accessible for anyone interested in retro gaming or media.
It works seamlessly with various applications, including emulators and video players, providing a versatile tool for applying CRT shaders.

Some users experience issues with stability, including crashes and problems with fullscreen mode.
The software can be tricky to set up and may not remember custom shader settings, leading to frustration.
There are limitations, such as a persistent yellow border on Windows 10 and compatibility issues with certain games or systems.

graphics
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
60%
60%
The graphics in the game are enhanced by a program that significantly improves pixel art and low-poly aesthetics, making them appear as originally intended. Users appreciate how this technology can elevate both retro and modern games, suggesting it should be standard in televisions and monitors for a better visual experience. Overall, the graphics are praised for their ability to evoke nostalgia while enhancing enjoyment.
- “Everyone should use this; it doesn't simply make pixel graphics look like they were originally intended.”
- “It should come in televisions and monitors as standard; it makes content appear much better and more enjoyable. I think it's best used subtly unless you're going for those true retro graphics.”
- “Playing pre-HD console games on old TVs is a lost art. The way CRTs mask discolorations and sharpness brings out the best in pixel art and low-poly aesthetics, and I'm glad something like this is accessible and free!”
- “The graphics are disappointing and lack the detail expected from modern games.”
- “The art style feels outdated and doesn't do justice to the game's potential.”
- “Textures are bland and environments look lifeless, making it hard to immerse myself in the game.”
optimization
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
67%
The game's optimization is a mixed bag; while the quality CRT shaders significantly enhance visual appeal, they can severely impact performance, especially on older hardware. However, some shaders offer a lower performance hit, making the experience more manageable for users with less powerful systems.
- “Not the highest performance, but that's to be expected with quality CRT shaders.”
- “It also has a lower performance impact.”
- “All but a handful of shaders destroy the performance of my poor aging laptop, but they look phenomenal.”
- “Not the most performance, but that's to be expected with quality CRT shaders.”
monetization
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Users express a desire for more features and functions in the app, suggesting that improved monetization could be achieved through enhanced advertising efforts.
stability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game presents a promising concept; however, users report significant stability issues, citing numerous bugs that affect gameplay.
- “Great idea, but it seems quite buggy at the moment.”
grinding
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Users highlight that Shaderglass is essential for players who enjoy completing games to 100% or engaging in grind-heavy gameplay, suggesting it enhances the experience for those who appreciate extensive grinding.
- “Shaderglass is a must-have if you tend to play games to 100% or get into really grindy games.”